Palm Beach, Florida | December 29, 2025
US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a high-level meeting on Sunday at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago resort in Palm Beach, Florida, focusing on a potential peace agreement to end the Russia-Ukraine war that has continued since February 2022.
The talks, which lasted more than two hours, were followed by a joint press conference in which both leaders expressed cautious optimism. Trump said the negotiations were “very productive” and claimed the two sides were “about 95 percent aligned” on a peace framework, though he acknowledged that several difficult issues remain unresolved.
Zelenskyy described the meeting as a “strong and constructive discussion”, stating that a 20-point peace plan has reached approximately 90 percent agreement, particularly on security-related provisions.
🔑 Key Areas of Progress and Dispute
Security Guarantees:
Both leaders indicated near-complete agreement on long-term security guarantees for Ukraine, backed by the United States and European allies. Zelenskyy called these assurances the “foundation of lasting peace.”
Donbas Region:
Eastern Ukraine’s Donbas region remains one of the most contentious issues. Russia seeks full control, while Ukraine has proposed a demilitarized zone. Trump described the issue as “complex,” confirming that no final breakthrough was reached.
Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant:
Control and security of Europe’s largest nuclear facility, currently under Russian occupation, also remains unresolved.
Reconstruction and Economic Support:
Trump suggested that Russia could play a role in Ukraine’s post-war reconstruction, potentially including energy cooperation, though no formal commitments were announced.
🌍 Diplomatic Context
Ahead of the meeting, Trump confirmed he had spoken by phone with Russian President Vladimir Putin, describing the conversation as “good and very productive.” Zelenskyy, however, reiterated skepticism over Russia’s intentions, citing recent large-scale drone and missile attacks on Kyiv just one day before the talks.
Both leaders also held video consultations with European leaders, signaling broader international involvement. Officials indicated that a follow-up meeting could take place in January, possibly in Washington, with European participation.
This marked the fourth meeting between Trump and Zelenskyy in 2025, with officials describing it as the most positive round so far, despite the absence of a final agreement.
